Hillsborough River Park is looking for a self‑motivated park service professional to fill a Park Services Specialist position, providing visitor services, maintenance, protection, administration, and cultural resource management. The applicant must possess good visitor service and administrative skills, be able to work independently and have the ability to perform a variety of skilled trade functions using assorted equipment and tools. The applicant must be able to work rotating shifts including evenings, weekends and holidays.
Compliance with the processing requirements of Chapter 215.422, F.S. is mandatory. Persistent failure to comply with this section by any agency of the state shall constitute good cause for discharge of employees duly found responsible, or predominantly responsible, for failure to comply.
Volunteer Coordinator
Recruits, screens, trains and oversees volunteers. Utilizes established system to coordinate the park’s volunteer and manpower augmentation program. Determines park needs and coordinates volunteer placement. Develops volunteer job descriptions, procedural manuals, and evaluations. Plans and oversees volunteer schedules, tracks hours, prepares reports, and coordinates awards program.
Visitor Services
Explains facilities and services provided for public use, enjoyment and education. Interacts with visitors by answering questions, providing information, assistance, and directions. Resolves customer complaints while maintaining good customer service and upholding the Florida Park Service image.
Resource Management
Participates in all aspects of prescribed fire. Monitors, maintains, and protects the natural and cultural resources of the park. Develops and implements resource management plans. Plans and participates in invasive species control using chemical and mechanical means. Implements site restoration projects. Participates in hydrological resource restoration and monitoring. Collects, analyzes, and records data.
Maintenance
Constructs, maintains and repairs buildings, fences, trails, service roads, fire lanes, boardwalks, campsites, picnic areas and all other necessary facilities. Maintains cleanliness of grounds, facilities, and vehicles.
Administration
Prepares forms and reports on a wide range of subjects including fees, receipts, visitor use, visitor contact, patrols, wildlife sightings and population counts, accidents, crisis and miscellaneous incidents, vehicle, boat and equipment operations, property records, purchase orders and requisitions, etc. Answers telephone, operates radio equipment and maintains logs. Answers correspondence and maintains park files.
Protection
Ensures park rules are enforced pertaining to all natural, historical and archaeological facilities and resources and use thereof for the enjoyment of the visitor.
Other
Performs other related duties as required.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of
Natural and cultural resource preservation and restoration techniques; the principles, methods and techniques of training; administrative principles and practices; volunteer recruitment and management; grounds and facilities maintenance techniques.
Skill in
Communicating effectively verbally and in writing; accurately preparing reports; interacting with internal and external customers and the public in a professional, tactful and courteous manner; use of assorted hand tools, power tools and equipment; utilizing a computer including Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to
Participate in all aspects of resource management, including prescribed fire activities and non‑native plant removal (which may include herbicide); work outdoors in inclement weather; operate motorized vehicles; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; follow verbal and written instructions; work independently with minimal supervision; establish and maintain effective working relationships; collect fees, operate computer and point‑of‑sale systems, reconcile transactions; recruit, screen and train volunteers; complete interpretive training, present interpretive programs and coordinate special events; identify and investigate problems and take appropriate action; conduct inspections; successfully complete ranger academy; maintain a valid driver’s license; successfully complete background and fingerprint check; properly wear uniform; comply with grooming standards and body art restrictions.
Minimum qualifications: Valid driver’s license.
Background screening requirement: This position is a Position of Trust and requires successful completion of a Level 2 State and National criminal history check and compliance with Chapter 435, F.S.
Organization and Mission
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the state’s leading agency for environmental management and stewardship – protecting our air, water and land. The vision of DEP is to advance Florida’s position as a world leader in protecting natural resources while growing the state’s economy. DEP encourages its leaders to constantly innovate and seek efficiencies.
Where You Will Work
Hillsborough River State Park, Ybor City Museum State Park, Fort Foster State Historic Site, c/o Hillsborough Island Administration, 15402 N. US 301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592.
Benefits
Annual and sick leave benefits; nine paid holidays and one personal holiday each year; State Group Insurance options including health, life, dental, vision and supplemental coverage; retirement plan options with employer contributions; tuition waivers; and additional benefits listed at www.mybenefits.myflorida.com.
Special Notes
DEP is committed to successfully recruiting and onboarding talented and skilled individuals. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to contact the recruiter for guidance at HR_VeteransPreference@dep.state.fl.us or HR_Recruitment@FloridaDEP.gov. Reasonable accommodations are available by contacting the DEP Human Resources Office at (850) 245‑2511.
Equal Opportunity
The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.
Veterans Preference
Candidates eligible for Veterans’ Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Supporting documentation must be attached as required.
